The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is being put into effect in West Bengal through a partnership between the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and the State Government. This information was communicated by Union Minister of State for MSME, Shobha Karandlaje, during a recent session of Lok Sabha on July 23, 2026.

The initiative began following a notification issued by the Government of West Bengal, which established both the State Monitoring Committee and District Implementation Committees on May 14, 2026. This marks a significant step in the rollout of the scheme designed to assist artisans and craftspeople.

The scheme’s primary focus is enhancing the livelihoods of women artisans across 18 different trades. These beneficiaries will receive various forms of support, including skill training, toolkit incentives, and access to collateral-free credit, along with marketing assistance.

Support for Women Artisans and Entrepreneurs

Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, women engaged in specified trades can avail themselves of numerous benefits aimed at fostering their professional growth. The initiative is part of a broader commitment by the government to support women entrepreneurs throughout the country.

The Union Minister highlighted that since its inception on April 8, 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) has disbursed a total of 5.82 crore loans, amounting to Rs. 3.55 lakh crore in West Bengal alone, reflecting the government’s ongoing investment in micro and small enterprises.

The government has also taken specific measures to assist women beneficiaries, including those from the Sundarbans region. Registered women-owned enterprises can access various benefits through the Udyam Registration Portal and the Udyam Assist Portal, which facilitate opportunities for them in priority sector lending.

Additional Policies to Strengthen MSME Sector

Various policies complement the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, aimed at enhancing the support provided to micro and small enterprises. These include the Public Procurement Policy for MSEs, the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises, and the Mahila Coir Yojana focused on skill upgrading.

Furthermore, the Incubation Component of the MSME Innovative Scheme is notable for promoting innovation and transforming novel ideas into viable business ventures. This aspect plays a pivotal role in bolstering the MSME ecosystem, particularly for start-ups.

In West Bengal, there are currently 23 Host Institutes designated to support this incubation process. Each approved idea can receive financial backing of up to Rs. 15 lakh, providing essential support for budding entrepreneurs in the region.

Overview of PM Vishwakarma Scheme

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme was officially launched on September 17, 2023, aimed at providing comprehensive support to artisans and craftspeople engaged in 18 traditional trades. The initiative highlights the importance of preserving and promoting cultural craftsmanship across India.

The 18 trades recognised under the scheme include, but are not limited to, Carpentry, Boat Making, Metal Artistry, and Tailoring. By fostering skills in these areas, the initiative aims to empower individuals while contributing to the preservation of traditional Indian crafts.

The introduction of this scheme solidifies the government’s commitment to supporting artisans, thereby promoting cultural heritage and enhancing livelihoods in various communities throughout West Bengal and beyond.

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